Pillow having structurally varying core and cover

ABSTRACT

A pillow for supporting the head of a reclining body. The pillow has a core formed with variable displacement parameters along the length and width and the pillow has a cover formed of a soft material for encasing the core. The cover imparts a soft feeling to the head on the pillow and distributes the weight of the head over the core. The core and the cover are displaced by the head as a function of the displacement parameters of the core so that the pillow functions to control the alignment of the head in a comfortable sleeping position while maintaining natural neck and head alignment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to pillows for use on a bed to support a head forsleeping and more particularly, to improved pillows having therapeuticand cosmetic properties and that enhance the quality of sleep.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Standard solid-bodied pillows in common use for many years have a numberof limitations. The downward force caused by the weight of a person'shead on tissue and facial skin in contact with solid bodied pillows isconsiderable, causing local stretching, cessation of capillary bloodflow and deformation of the skin. Over a period of years these factorsaccelerate wrinkling of the skin, contributing to the visible effects ofaging.

Similarly, the outer surfaces of the ears are crushed by the weight ofthe head when a person using a pillow lies to the side, contributing tocessation of capillary blood flow and the incidence of bacterial andfungal ear infections, morning wax deafness, ear ache and gradualdeformation and wrinkling of the pinna.

In addition, standard pillows provide uneven support to the head andneck, causing muscular strain of the neck and back, and causing generalnight unrest. Sleepers adopt a side or face down position during sleepin an effort to conform to the support points of a pillow, spendingdisproportionately little time sleeping in a supine position. Thistendency can accelerate degeneration of the spine associated with aging,particularly in the neck region. Indeed, neck injury commonly resultsfrom improper support while sleeping. Similarly, in an attempt to matchpersonal anatomy to a pillow, many people adopt unnatural sleepingpositions with arms and hands used to provide head support, which leadsto discomfort and joint degeneration, and even arthritis, in the hands,elbows and shoulders.

Although a variety of pillow sizes and shapes are available, they oftendo not match an individual's anatomy and natural sleep habits. In anattempt to address some of these deficiencies, various pillow designshave been proposed. U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,380 entitled ADJUSTABLE CERVICALPILLOW WITH DEPRESSIONS FOR A USER'S EAR invented by Roger A. Sramek,one of the inventors of the present invention, discloses a pillow whichreduces the incidence of morning wrinkles and permanent skin wrinkling,which prevents ear compression and which provides anatomically correctcervical and head support. That pillow supports the head and neck of aperson and includes a resilient pillow body with an adjustable-heighthead rest. The head rest includes a central depression in the pillowbody and a plurality of head-height adjustment shims which fit into thecentral depression. The pillow body has a resilient upper portion with aplurality of depressions on a top face for receiving the person's ears.

While U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,380 is close to setting a standard for theideal pillow, that pillow has a non-standard appearance resulting from acontoured shape and a narrow width. That pillow was made from urethanefoam and other resilient man-made and natural materials that providedfirm and aligned support and vastly improved the quality of sleep.

Since normally everyone spends a large percentage of everyday sleeping,the quality of sleep is important to a person's good health andenjoyment of life. Comfortable pillows and beds are important inestablishing restful sleep. During sleep, a healthy person typicallypasses through five levels of sleep which include stages I-IV and whichadditionally includes a REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stage. Stages Iand II are the lightest sleep and stages III and IV are the deepest. TheREM stage is that level in which sleepers dream and receive the mentalhealth benefits attendant dreaming. All levels of sleep are important,but stages III and IV are the deepest and most physically restful sleep,when, for example, human growth hormone is secreted. Normal sleep iscyclic passing through the stages from I to IV and back from IV to I andinto and out of REM. This sleep cycle is repeated a number of times overa normal sleep period, but can be disrupted due, for example, to bodydiscomfort.

Restfulness and the quality of sleep are dependent upon the comfort ofsleepers. When sleepers become uncomfortable, they move to relieve thediscomfort and the resulting moves are a normal part of sleep. Whensleepers move, they frequently change to lighter levels of sleep (stageI or II) or awaken. The more discomfort sleepers feel, the more theywill move and the more time they will spend in lighter and less restfulsleep. Good sleeping is normally associated with a low number of bodyshifts during the sleep period. Shifts due to discomfort caused by bedsor pillows are a significant cause of poor sleep quality. Onconventional sleep surfaces, most people experience about forty majorpostural body shifts in the course of a night's sleep. Poor sleepersexperience about sixty percent more major shifts than good sleepers.While some shifts during a sleep period are beneficial, the quality ofsleep can be greatly improved for many by reducing the number of shiftscaused by discomfort.

There are two major causes of bed-induced shifting, and particularlypillow-induced shifting, which cause poor sleep. As it relates to thehead and pillow, the first major cause of shifting is the buildup ofpressures on parts of the head and the second major cause of shifting ispoor neck/head alignment. Considering the first major cause of shifting,the buildup of pressures results from prolonged lying in the sameposition and from pillows which are too thick or too hard. Highcompression tends to restrict capillary blood flow which is recognizedby the body, after a period of time, as discomfort. The pressurethreshold which causes a discontinuance of capillary blood flow iscalled the ischemic pressure. The ischemic pressure is normallyconsidered to be approximately thirty mmHg. The discontinuance ofcapillary blood flow is observable as a red spot on the skin. Afterpressure is applied, a red spot on the skin is a precursor to tissuedamage. When parts of the body are subjected to pressures above theischemic threshold, discomfort results and, hence, a person shifts toremove the discomfort and threat to tissue damage. For some people, theears are particularly sensitive to such pressure.

Considering the second major cause of shifting, poor body alignmentresults from bending of the vertebral column of the body. As it relatesto the head and pillow, such bending is typically caused by poorlyfunctioning mattresses and pillows that cause unwanted improper anddistorting alignment of the neck and head in one or more sleepingpositions. Proper supine (back-lying) position means that the occiput ofthe head (the protruding back part of the head) comes to rest nearly atthe same level as the shoulders so that the head and neck are not in anextended or bowed position while at the same time, a proper amount ofsupport is provided to the neck with its natural curvature. For a pillowthat provides sleep comfort, a neutral anatomic position is achieved andthe natural alignment is evidenced by the chin and brow being at aboutthe same height. When these positions are not achieved, a distorting andunnatural alignment occurs causing discomfort. When these positions areachieved, the head and neck are in a non-distorting aligned positionthat provides good sleep comfort.

Natural, non-distorting alignment allows the neck functions includingthose of the nerves, tissues, arteries, and the breathing tube(oropharynx and hypopharynx) to perform optimally. Natural alignmentalso reduces stress and reduces compression on the neck muscles andnerves and thus reduces pain and stiffness.

Many pillows have a high concentration of fill in the middle of thepillow, or are otherwise too firm or too thick, and therefore promoteextended flexion of the neck so that the head position is extendedbeyond natural alignment into distorted alignment. This extended headposition often impairs breathing and other neck functions leading toworsened snoring and to neck, shoulder and back pain. Also, the extendedhead position causes wrinkling across the neck and chin. The result is adistorting alignment causing discomfort and other unwanted consequences.

In addition to head and body alignment, pillows also have propertiesthat affect cosmetic qualities of skin. The skin, particularly in womenwanting delicate and smooth skin features, is susceptible to wrinklingFacial tissue is particularly susceptible to wrinkling and worsens withaging. Repeated compression of the facial flesh, for example whenside-sleeping on a conventional pillow, forms nocturnal creases on eachside of the mouth and wrinkling about the upper lip occurs. Idealpillows as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,380 tend to tighten thefacial skin during sleep and hence tend to reduce pillow-inducedwrinkling

Many purchasers and merchants have come to expect pillows to have other“standard properties”. For example, an expectation is that pillows willhave standard sizes for use on standard mattresses such as King, Queen,Double and so forth with dimensions that match existing pillow casesizes. While these “standard properties” do not necessarily add to thesuitability of a pillow for sleeping, they nonetheless can be importantfor widespread commercial acceptance of pillows.

A number of additional “attributes” are also important for commercialacceptance of pillows. A pillow design desirably meets the needs of alarge percentage of the population. The greatest demand is for pillowsused on beds that sleep two people side by side. The number of stockingnumbers required for a pillow product line is desirably low so thatdistribution and sale are efficient.

Developments in the parameters of and manufacturing capabilities forfoam and other materials (including beads, seeds and husks) haveprovided new components for pillows that can be used to better approachthe technical parameters required for an ideal pillow at economicalcosts and which can be manufactured with expected “standard properties”and with the “attributes” for pillows that are desired by the public.

In the present specification the term “foam” is used in a generic senseto include all substances that trap many gas bubbles in a solid, forexample, synthetic and natural rubber, latex, elastomer and polyurethaneamong others.

The physical properties of pillow materials include among othersDensity, Hardness, Tensile Strength, Indentation Load Deflection,Compression Load Deflection, Initial Softness Ratio, Resilience(Elasticity), Compression Modulus, Hysteresis and Durability/Lifetime.These physical properties are described as follows.

Hardness is the resistance against pressure.

Density is the mass per unit volume. Hardness and density areinterrelated. When density increases, hardness tends to increase.Generally for lower density materials, a growing loss in hardness arisesafter repeated loading.

Tensile Strength is the measure of the resistance against stretching andchanges in tensile strength are measured as Tensile % and changes inlength after applying a tensile force are measured as Elongation %.

Indentation Load Deflection (ILD) is a hardness measurement defined inthe ISO 2439 standard. ILD in the standard is defined as the force thatis required to compress material a percentage of its original thickness,that is, compressed 25%, 40% and 60% from its original thickness (usingin the standard a circular plate of 322 cm²). These ILD's are designatedILD25%, ILD40% and ILD60%

Compression Load Deflection (CLD) is a hardness measurement defined inthe ISO 3386 standard. CLD is defined as the counterpressure (force persurface) in Pascal when the core material is pressed in 25% with a stampwhere 1 kPA (kilopascal) equals 10 g/cm² (grams per square centimeter),Compression Set 75%.

Initial Softness Ratio (ISR) is a hardness measurement defined as theratio of ILD65%/ILD5%. This measurement somewhat correlates to theinitial perception of a person about the comfort of a mattress.

Resilience (Elasticity) is an elasticity measurement defined in the ASTM3574 standard. Resilience/Elasticity is measured by the “ball-rebound”test where a steel ball is dropped from a height onto the mattress coreand the rebound of the ball is measured as a % of a predeterminedheight.

Compression Modulus (Sag Factor) is a compression measurement defined inthe ISO 2439 standard. This sag factor is defined as the ratio of ILD65%to ILD25%. The sag factor somewhat correlates with the perception of aperson as to whether the mattress supports the body with more uniformalignment.

Hysteresis is a measurement of the load deformation curve of the loadsurface. The hysteresis curve is determined by loading and de-loading ofa mattress core. A circular plate of 355 mm diameter is used togradually build a force up to a maximum of 1000 Newtons. The hysteresisrepresents the amount of energy that is absorbed by the material duringloading/de-loading. The higher the absorption of energy by a mattresscore, the more strength/energy is required by a person to changeposition on the mattress. Mattress cores which are too soft, have a lowhysteresis which results in higher energy requirements for a personchanging position on the mattress core. A low hysteresis value generallyresults in poor sleeping quality.

Durability/Lifetime is a measurement defined in one method by the EN1957 standard. In this method, a weight of 1400 Newton is rolled 30,000times up and down on the mattress core. Afterwards the height(Elevation), hardness, ILD and elasticity of the core are measured. Thisprocess is repeated once again and the results are compared with theoriginal values and recorded as a as a % retention. The average inclineof the hardness is determined at 210 N, 275 N and 340 N in the loaddeformation curve. Another measurement is defined by the ISO 3385 (DIN5374) standard. In this method, a foam sample of 40×40 cm forced with aweight of 750 N for 80,000 times at 70 strokes per minute. Afterwards,the loss of height and the hardness are compared with the originalvalues again as a % retention. Tear is another durability parametermeasured in pounds per linear inch (pli) and indicates the energyrequired to pull a sample apart.

In consideration of the above background, there is a need for improvedpillows that better approach the properties of ideal pillows and thatcan be economically manufactured utilizing the available physicalproperties of materials while satisfying the public expectations anddemands for pillows.

SUMMARY

The present invention is a pillow for supporting the head of a recliningbody. The pillow has a core formed with variable displacement parametersalong the length and width and the pillow has a cover formed of a softmaterial for encasing the core. The cover imparts a soft feeling to thehead on the pillow and distributes the weight of the head over the core.The core and the cover are displaced by the head as a function of thedisplacement parameters of the cover and the core so that the pillowfunctions to control the alignment of the head in a non-distortingaligned position for comfortable sleeping.

The core preferable is constructed of foam and the cover preferable isconstructed with a fill of down, fiber, pulverized foam fills or othersimilar soft material. The pillow is constructed in different variationsof thickness and firmness and cooperates with a mattress to providecomfort that enhances the quality of sleep.

The core in preferred embodiments is formed of one or more foam panelshaving a structure that creates the variable displacement parametersalong the length and width of the pillow. While the overall exteriorshape of the pillow appears regular and smooth, like conventionalpillows, the internal structure is variable and is displaced in abeneficial manner under the weight of a head.

The core is constructed to have a firm area (higher ILD) near a longeredge of the pillow and a softer (lower ILD) central region. The firmarea is for alignment under the neck and provides neck support forcomfortable supine and other position sleeping. The softer centralregion adjacent the firm area allows the head to be positioned in aneutral anatomic position with natural alignment evidenced by the chinand brow being at about the same height above the mattress surface. Inthe supine position, gravity acts to draw the tissues back from thecenterline of the face as to reduce creases and wrinkles

The core is constructed to have firm areas (higher ILD's) on either sideof the softer (lower ILD) central region. These firm areas on eitherside of the softer central region provide firmer support on the side ofthe head for side-sleeping. During side sleeping, the weight of the headcauses a minor load on the tissues proximal to the centerline of theface, that is, the area on each side of the mouth and on the lips. Withthe firm area on the side of the soft area, the head is gently drawnforward by the action of gravity, causing a drawing back of the cheekand neutralization of the stresses on or about the mouth and hencefunctions to reduce deep creasing and wrinkling in that region. The coreis constructed to position the head and neck to avoid improper head/neckpositioning. Improper head/neck positioning results in the reduction inairway patency, snoring and sleep apnea. For side sleeping, the softfacial tissue is drawn backward so as to open the nasal vestibule.

The pillow cover in one or more preferred embodiments includes internalcompartments for receiving and holding a soft fill, such as down, aroundthe core. Typically a fastener such as a zipper is present along one ormore sides of the pillow cover to enable the core to be easily insertedand removed from the cover. The core is therefore easily exchanged withdifferent cores, to achieve different sleep qualities as may bepreferred by a user. Also, core removal allows the pillow cover to belaundered without subjecting the core to the laundry environment.

Different asymmetrical relationships are present in certain embodimentsto allow a user to select which side or edge of the pillow is mostcomfortable.

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following detailed description inconjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a pillow having a normal shape and appearance within apartially cut away pillow case.

FIG. 2 depicts an isometric view of the pillow of FIG. 1 with theinternal structure including the core shown within the cover.

FIG. 3 depicts a front section view of the cover of the pillow of FIG. 1and FIG. 2 with the core removed.

FIG. 4 depicts a section view of an alternate embodiment of the cover ofthe pillow of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 with the core removed and where thecover material is thicker on one side (top) of the core opening than theother side (bottom).

FIG. 5 depicts a top view of a core formed of an inner soft regionsurrounded by an outer firmer region.

FIG. 6 depicts an end view of the core of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 depicts an end view of an alternate embodiment the core of FIG.5.

FIG. 8 depicts a top view of a core formed of an inner soft region, anintermediate firmer region surrounding the inner soft region an outersofter region surrounding the intermediate region.

FIG. 9 depicts an end view of the core of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternate front section view of the cover of thepillow of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 with the core removed where the coverincludes baffles for keeping the cover material uniformly distributedabout the core.

FIG. 11 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centeroval hole for a head between firmer regions along the edges of thelength for neck support and created by firmer regions on either side ofthe soft center hole with additional oval holes (including ear holes)for softness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width.

FIG. 12 depicts an isometric view of a pillow with the core of FIG. 11within the cover and with the internal structure revealed.

FIG. 13 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerrectangular hole for a head between firmer regions along the edges ofthe length for neck support and created by firmer regions on either sideof the soft center hole with additional rectangular holes (including earholes) for softness between the firmer regions and the edges along thewidth.

FIG. 14 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by half holesaround the perimeter, created by a soft center region formed of multiplerows of circular holes for a head between firmer regions along the edgesof the length for neck support and created by firmer regions on eitherside of the soft center region with additional rows of circular holesfor softness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width.

FIG. 16 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by half holesaround the perimeter, created by a soft center region formed of multiplerows of circular holes for a head between firmer regions along the edgesof the length for neck support and created by firmer regions on eitherside of the soft center region with additional rows of circular holesfor softness between the firmer regions and the edges along the widthand created by slots surrounding the center region for relieving tensileforces created by a head and by slots around holes for ears to providesoftness for ears.

FIG. 18 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 17 for a coreof 3 inch thickness.

FIG. 19 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 17 for a coreof 2 inch thickness.

FIG. 20 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 17 for a coreof 1 inch thickness.

FIG. 21 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes surrounded by tensionrelieving slots on four sides for a head between firmer regions alongthe edges of the length for neck support and created by firmer regionson either side of the soft center region with additional rows ofcircular holes for softness between the firmer regions and the edgesalong the width and created by four ear holes for side lying placementof ears.

FIG. 22 depicts an end sectional view of the core of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion for a head formed of multiple rows of circular holes surroundedby tension relieving slots on four sides between firmer regions alongthe edges of the length for neck support and created by firmer regionson either side of the soft center region with additional rows ofcircular holes for softness between the firmer regions and the edgesalong the width, created by four ear holes for side lying placement ofears and created by softening holes around the perimeter.

FIG. 24 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 23 taken alongthe length and through the center region and ear holes.

FIG. 25 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 23 taken alongthe width and through the center region.

FIG. 26 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 23 taken alongthe width and through the ear holes.

FIG. 27 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes surrounded by tensionrelieving slots on four sides between firmer regions along the edges ofthe length for neck support and created by firmer regions on either sideof the soft center region with additional rows of circular holes forsoftness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width andcreated by four ear holes for side lying placement of ears.

FIG. 28 depicts a front section view of the core of FIG. 27 taken alongthe length and through the center region and ear holes.

FIG. 29 depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the center region andear holes and showing a hollowed-out section from both the top andbottom surfaces in the head region.

FIG. 30 depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the center region andear holes and being formed of two layers of foam having differentcompression parameters and with openings extending through both layers.

FIG. 31A depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the center region andear holes and being formed of two layers of foam having differentcompression parameters and with openings (holes) extending through onlyone of the layers.

FIG. 31B depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the center region andear holes and being formed of multiple layers of foam having differentcompression parameters and with openings (holes) extending through onlythe top layer.

FIG. 32 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes surrounded by tensionrelieving slots on four sides for a head between firmer regions alongthe edges of the length for neck support and created by firmer regionson either side of the soft center region with additional rows ofcircular holes for softness between the firmer regions and the edgesalong the width and created by four ear holes for side lying placementof ears.

FIG. 33 depicts a top view of a core having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion for a head formed of multiple rows of circular holes surroundedby tension relieving slots on four sides and additionally at each of thecorners between firmer regions along the edges of the length for necksupport and created by firmer regions on either side of the soft centerregion with additional rows of circular holes for softness between thefirmer regions and the edges along the width and created by four earholes for side lying placement of ears where the ear holes are within alarger oval cut.

FIG. 34 depicts a female in a back-lying position with the pillowcooperating with the mattress to maintain natural head and neckalignment.

FIG. 35 depicts a female in a side-lying position with the pillowcooperating with the mattress to maintain natural head and neckalignment.

FIG. 36 depicts a male in a back-lying position with the pillowcooperating with the mattress to maintain natural head and neckalignment.

FIG. 37 depicts a male in a side-lying position with the pillowcooperating with the mattress to maintain natural head and neckalignment.

FIG. 38 depicts a male in a back-lying position with the pillowoperating to bend the head and neck upward and out of natural alignment.

FIG. 39 depicts a male in a side-lying position with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment.

FIG. 40 depicts a male in a side-lying position with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment but with a slight downwardextension that tends to open the air passage and reduce or eliminatesnoring and other sleep difficulties.

FIG. 41 depicts a cross-sectional end view of a pillow with a cover andcore and with a female in a side-lying position with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment and where the section istaken to show the ear positioned over the ear hole of the core.

FIG. 42 depicts a cross-sectional end view of the same pillow as in FIG.41 with a cover and core and with a female in a side-lying position withthe pillow maintaining natural head and neck alignment and where thesection is taken to show the head behind the ear hole of the core.

FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional side view of a pillow with a cover andcore and with a female in a side-lying position with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment and where the section istaken to show the ear positioned over the ear hole of the core.

FIG. 44 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow as inFIG. 43 with a cover and core and with a female in a side-lyingposition, in the opposite direction as in FIG. 43, with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment and where the section istaken to show the ear positioned over the ear hole of the core.

FIG. 45 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow as inFIG. 44 with a cover and core and with a female midway between aside-lying position and a back-lying position, with the pillowmaintaining natural head and neck alignment.

FIG. 46 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow as inFIG. 44 and FIG. 45 with a cover and core and with a female in aback-lying position, with the pillow maintaining natural head and neckalignment.

FIG. 47 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow as inFIG. 44, FIG. 45 and FIG. 46 with a cover and core and with a female ina side-lying position with the face toward the center of the pillow andwith the pillow maintaining natural head and neck alignment.

FIG. 48 depicts a top view of a pillow with a core having variabledisplacement parameters in the length and width directions created by asoft center hole for a head between firmer regions along the edges ofthe length for neck support and created by firmer regions on either sideof the soft center hole with additional holes (including ear holes) forsoftness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width.

FIG. 49 depicts an end view of a thin core embodiment of the core in thepillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 depicts a front view of a thin core embodiment of the core inthe pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 51 depicts a front view of an alternate thicker core embodiment ofthe core in the pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 52 depicts a front view of a thick core embodiment of the core inthe pillow of FIG. 48 formed by a combination of the cores of FIG. 50and FIG. 51.

FIG. 53 depicts an isometric view of a thick core of the FIG. 52embodiment of the core in the pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 54 depicts a front sectional view of a thick core of the FIG. 52embodiment of the core in the pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 55 depicts a front sectional view of a thick core of the FIG. 51embodiment of the core in the pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 56 depicts a front sectional view of a thin core of the FIG. 50embodiment of the core in the pillow of FIG. 48.

FIG. 57 depicts a front sectional view of another core of the type usedin a pillow of the FIG. 50 type.

FIG. 58 depicts a front sectional view of another core of the type usedin a pillow of the FIG. 50 type.

FIG. 59 depicts a front sectional view of another core of the type usedin a pillow of the FIG. 50 type.

FIG. 60 depicts a front sectional view of another core of the type usedin a pillow of the FIG. 50 type.

FIG. 61 depicts a front sectional view of another core of the type usedin a pillow of the FIG. 50 type.

FIG. 62 depicts a front sectional view of the core of FIG. 61 within acover of a pillow and supporting a side lying head.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1, pillow 10 externally has a normal shape and appearance andfits within a conventional pillow case 8. Internally, the pillow 10 hasa structurally varying core 12. A zipper 14 or other fastening device isprovided, in some embodiments, so as to provide an opening for access tothe internal parts including core 12 of the pillow 10.

In FIG. 2, the pillow 10 of FIG. 1 is shown and includes the core 12encased within a core opening 6 formed by the cover 11. The core 12 ismade of structurally varying foam and includes varying displacementparameters. The cover 11 surrounds the core 12 and the zipper 14provides an opening for internal access. Typically, zipper 14 extendsalong two of the four sides of the pillow 10.

In FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the pillow 10 is for supporting and positioning ahead and neck of a reclining body (see FIG. 34 through FIG. 47) on amattress (see FIG. 34 through FIG. 37) where the pillow 10 has a pillowlength, P_(T), a pillow width, P_(W), and a pillow thickness, P_(T). Thepillow 10 includes a foam core 12 having core variable displacementparameters (see FIG. 5 through FIG. 33) along the pillow length and thepillow width in the direction of the pillow thickness for supporting theneck and head in a non-distorting aligned position. The pillow 10includes a cover 11 forming a core opening 13 for receiving the core 12so that the cover encases the core. The cover includes a chamber 4containing a fill 3. The chamber 4 has a chamber thickness, C_(T)(C_(T1) and C_(T2)), forming a substantial portion of the pillowthickness, W_(T). The fill 3 has fill displacement parameterssubstantially softer than the core variable displacement parameters.Therefore, in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and otherwise in the present invention,the cover 11 of the pillow 10 imparts a soft feeling to the head and thefoam core 12 is displaced by the head, acting through the cover 11, as afunction of the core variable displacement parameters to support thehead and neck in the non-distorting aligned position.

FIG. 3 depicts a front section view of the cover 11 of the pillow 10 ofFIG. 1 and FIG. 2 with the core removed leaving a core opening 13. Thecore opening 13 has a width, W_(C), and a height, H_(C), and the cover11 has a width, W_(P), and a height, H_(P). The cover 11 is fastenedaround the core opening 12′ and the zipper 14 provides internal accessto the core opening 12′.

FIG. 4 depicts a section view of an alternate embodiment of the cover 11of the pillow of FIG. 1 (for clarity, the core is removed leaving a coreopening 13). The core opening 13 in one embodiment has a length, L_(C),of 24 inches, and a thickness, T_(C), of 3 inches and the cover 11 has alength, L_(P), of 26 inches and a thickness, T_(P), of 24 inches wherethe cover chamber 4-1 is thicker with a measurement, C_(T1), of 3 incheson one side of the core opening 13 than the cover chamber 4-2 with ameasurement, C_(T2), of 1 inch on the other side of the core opening 13.The asymmetry created by the 1 inch and 3 inch dimensions creates apillow that presents a different feel and different displacementparameters to the head of a sleeper as a function of which side (1 inchside or 3 inches side) of the pillow is up on the mattress to receivethe head.

FIG. 5 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₅ formed of an inner (central)soft region 15-2 surrounded by an outer firmer region 15-1. The region15-1 includes one or more holes 15-3 for modifying by softening thedisplacement parameters of the outer region 15-1. In a typicalembodiment, the region 15-2 measures 11 inches by 10 inches and theouter region 15-1 measures 20 inches by 14 inches. The core 12 ₅ is oneembodiment of a core formed with variable displacement parameters alongthe length and width as created by the soft region 15-2 surrounded bythe outer firmer region 15-1 with holes 15 ₃.

FIG. 6 depicts an end view of a 3 inch core 12 ₅ of FIG. 5 with the softregion 15-2 surrounded by the outer firmer region 15-1. The transitionbetween region 15-2 and region 15-1 is gradual with a triangular slope.This transition prevents a sharp feeling to a sleeper for greatercomfort.

FIG. 7 depicts an end view of an alternate embodiment a 2 inch core 12 ₅of FIG. 5 where the outer edged of outer region 15 ₇-1 of FIG. 7 isbull-nosed or otherwise rounded to soften the edge as might be felt by asleeper's head on a pillow. The transition between region 15 ₇-2 andregion 15 ₇-1 is gradual with a triangular slope. This transitionprevents a sharp feeling to a sleeper for greater comfort.

FIG. 8 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₈ formed of an inner soft region15 ₈-3, an intermediate firmer region 15 ₈-2 surrounding the inner softregion 15 ₈-3 and an outer softer region 15 ₈-1 surrounding theintermediate region 15 ₈-2. The outer softer region 15 ₈-1 includes aplurality of holes 15 ₈-4 for modifying by softening the displacementparameters of the outer region 15 ₈-1. The core 12 ₈ is one embodimentof a core formed with variable displacement parameters along the lengthand width as created by the inner soft region 15 ₈-3, the intermediatefirmer region 15 ₈-2 surrounding the inner soft region 15 ₈-3 and theouter softer region 15 ₈-1 surrounding the intermediate region 15 ₈-2.

FIG. 9 depicts an end view of the core 12 ₈ of FIG. 8. In oneembodiment, the inner soft region 15 ₈-3 is 9 inches, the intermediateregion 15 ₈-2 is 12 inches and the outer softer region 15 ₈-1 is 14inches shown in FIG. 9 as measured on the end.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternate front section view of the cover of thepillow of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 with the core removed where the coverchamber includes compartments for keeping the cover fill materialuniformly distributed about the core. Baffles extending across thechamber create the compartments 11 ₁₀-1, 11 ₁₀-2, 11 ₁₀-3, 11 ₁₀-4, 11₁₀-5, 11 ₁₀-6, 11 ₁₀-7, 11 ₁₀-9, 11 ₁₀-10, 11 ₁₀-11 and 11 ₁₀-12.

FIG. 11 depicts a top sectional view of a pillow 10 ₁₁ having a core 12₁₁ having variable displacement parameters in the length and widthdirections created by a soft center oval hole 16 ₁₁-3 for a head betweenfirmer regions along the edges of the length for neck support andcreated by firmer regions on either side of the soft center hole withadditional oval holes (including ear holes 16 ₁₁-3, 16 ₁₁-4, 16 ₁₁-6 and16 ₁₁-7 and including side holes 16 ₁₁-1 and 16 ₁₁-5) for softnessbetween the firmer regions and the edges along the width. In theembodiment of FIG. 11, the pillow measures 30 inches by 20 inches. Thecore 12 ₁₁ is one embodiment of a core formed with variable displacementparameters along the length and width as created by the inner hole 16₁₁-3, the ear holes 16 ₁₁-3, 16 ₁₁-4, 16 ₁₁-6 and 16 ₁₁-7 and the sideholes 16 ₁₁-1 and 16 ₁₁-5.

FIG. 12 depicts an isometric view of the pillow 10 ₁₁ with the core 12₁₁ of FIG. 11 within the cover 11 ₁₁ and with the internal structurerevealed by broken lines.

FIG. 13 depicts a top sectional view of a core 12 ₁₃ having variabledisplacement parameters in the length and width directions created by acenter rectangular hole 16 ₁₃-3 for receiving a head between firmerregions along the edges of the length for neck support and created byfirmer regions on either side of the center rectangular hole 16 ₁₃-3with additional rectangular holes (including ear holes 16 ₁₃-3, 16 ₁₃-4,16 ₁₃-6 and 16 ₁₃-7 and including side holes 16 ₁₃-1 and 16 ₁₃-5) forsoftness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 13, the core 12 ₁₃ measures 24 inches by 16inches. The core 12 ₁₃ is one embodiment of a core formed with variabledisplacement parameters along the length and width as created by theinner hole 1613-3, the ear holes 16 ₁₃-3, 16 ₁₃-4, 16 ₁₃-6 and 16 ₁₃-7and the side holes 16 ₁₃-1 and 16 ₁₃-5.

FIG. 14 depicts a front section view taken along section line 14-14′ ofthe core of FIG. 13. The rectangular holes 16 ₁₃-1, 16 ₁₃-7, 16 ₁₃-3, 16₁₃-6 and 16 ₁₃-5 extend all the way through the core 12 ₁₃. The core 12₁₃ is surrounded by the cover 11 ₁₃.

FIG. 15 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₁₅ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by half holesaround the perimeter, created by a soft center region formed of multiplerows of circular holes 16-5, 16-6, 16-7, 16-8 and 16-9 for receiving ahead between firmer regions along the edges of the length for necksupport and created by firmer regions on either side of the centerregion with additional rows of circular holes 16-1, 16-2, 16-3, and 16-4and 16-10, 16-11, 16-12, and 16-13 for softness between the firmerregions and the edges along the width. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, thecentral region of the foam core 12 ₁₅ is formed by a foam layer having avolume where fifty percent or more of the volume is constituted by thecircular holes 16-5, 16-6, 16-7, 16-8 and 16-9.

FIG. 16 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₁₅ taken alongsection line 16-16′ of FIG. 15. The core 12 ₁₅ measures 1 inch and is ofuniform thickness.

FIG. 17 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₁₇ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by half holesaround the perimeter, created by a soft center region formed of multiplerows of circular holes for a head between firmer regions along the edgesof the length for neck support and created by firmer regions on eitherside of the soft center region with additional rows of circular holesfor softness between the firmer regions and the edges along the widthand created by slots surrounding the center region for relieving tensileforces created by a head and by slots around holes for ears to providesoftness for ears. FIG. 17 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₁₇ havingvariable displacement parameters in the length and width directionscreated by half holes 16 ₁₇-14 around the perimeter, created by a softcenter region formed of multiple rows of circular holes 16 ₁₇-4, 16₁₇-5, 16 ₁₇-6, 16 ₁₇-7 and 16 ₁₇-8 for receiving a head between firmerregions along the edges of the length for neck support and created byfirmer regions on either side of the center region. Additional rows ofcircular holes 16 ₁₇-1, 16 ₁₇-2, 16 ₁₇-3, and 16 ₁₇-9 and 16 ₁₇-10 and16 ₁₇-11 provide for softness between the firmer regions and the edgesalong the width. Slots 19, including slots 19 ₁₇-1, 16 ₁₇-2 and 16 ₁₇-3in the upper left ear region, relieve stress in the ear regions. Slots20 ₁₇-1, 20 ₁₇-2, 20 ₁₇-3, and 20 ₁₇-4 relieve stress around the centerregion rows of circular holes 16 ₁₇-4, 16 ₁₇-5, 16 ₁₇-6, 16 ₁₇-7 and 16₁₇-8. Also, in FIG. 17, the foam core 12 ₁₇ has a central regionincluding the circular holes 16 ₁₇-4, 16 ₁₇-5, 16 ₁₇-6, 16 ₁₇-7 and 16₁₇-8 and formed with a first wall of approximately 3 inches runningparallel to the score 20 ₁₇-1 and extending to the half-circle edge, anda second wall of approximately 2 inches running parallel to the score 20₁₇-3 and extending to the half-circle edge where the first and secondwalls extend in the direction of the length. The central region has acentral ILD and the walls have a wall ILD where the central ILD is lessthan the wall ILD because of the holes. The neck of a reclining body issupported by and extends over one of the walls allowing the head todepress into the central region.

FIG. 18 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₁₇, taken alongsection line 18-18′ of FIG. 17, that is 3 inches thick.

FIG. 19 depicts a front section view of the core 12′₁₇, taken alongsection line 18-18′ of FIG. 17, that is 2 inches thick.

FIG. 20 depicts a front section view of the core 12″₁₇, taken alongsection line 18-18′ of FIG. 17, that is 1 inch thick.

FIG. 21 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₂₁ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes 16 ₂₁-3 surrounded bytension relieving slots on four sides for a head between firmer regionsalong the edges of the length for neck support and created by firmerregions on either side of the soft center region with additional rows ofcircular holes for softness between the firmer regions and the edgesalong the width and created by four ear holes for side lying placementof ears. FIG. 21 depicts a top sectional view of a core 12 ₂₁ havingvariable displacement parameters in the length and width directionscreated by a center rectangular hole 16 ₂₁-3 for receiving a headbetween firmer regions along the edges of the length for neck supportand created by firmer regions on either side of the center rectangularhole 16 ₂₁-3. Additional holes (including ear holes 26 ₂₁-2, 16 ₂₁-4, 16₂₁-6 and 16 ₂₁-8, including side holes 16 ₂₁-1 and 16 ₂₁-5 and includingside holes 16 ₂₁-9 and 16 ₂₁-10) for softness between the firmer regionsand the edges along the length and width.

FIG. 22 depicts a front section view, taken along section line 22-22′ ofFIG. 21, of the core 12 ₂₁ of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₂₃ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion for a head formed of multiple rows of circular holes surroundedby tension relieving slots on four sides between firmer regions alongthe edges of the length for neck support and created by firmer regionson either side of the soft center region. Additional rows of circularholes for softness, between the firmer regions and the edges along thewidth, are created by four ear holes for side lying alignment of earsand accompanied by softening holes around the perimeter.

FIG. 24 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₂₃ of FIG. 23, takenalong the section line 24-24′ of FIG. 23 that extends for the length andthrough the center region and ear holes.

FIG. 25 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₂₃ of FIG. 23, takenalong the section line 25-25′ of FIG. 23 that extends for the width andthrough the center region.

FIG. 26 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₂₃ of FIG. 23, takenalong the section line 26-26′ of FIG. 23 that extends for the widththrough the center region and ear holes.

FIG. 27 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₂₇ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes surrounded by tensionrelieving slots on four sides between firmer regions along the edges ofthe length for neck support and created by firmer regions on either sideof the soft center region. Additional rows of circular holes forsoftness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width andcreated by four ear holes for side lying placement of ears.

FIG. 28 depicts a front section view of the core 12 ₂₇ of FIG. 27 takenalong the section line 28-28′ of FIG. 27 and extending over the lengthand through the center region and ear holes.

FIG. 29 depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore 12 ₂₇ of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the centerregion and ear holes and showing a hollowed-out section from both thetop and bottom surfaces in the central head region.

FIG. 30 depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore 12 ₂₇ of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the centerregion and ear holes and being formed of two layers of foam having thesame or different compression parameters and with openings aligned andextending through both layers.

FIG. 31A depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore 12 ₂₇ of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the centerregion and ear holes and being formed of two layers of foam having thesame or different compression parameters and with openings extendingthrough only one of the layers.

FIG. 31B depicts a front section view of an alternate embodiment of thecore of FIG. 27 taken along the length and through the center region andear holes and being formed of multiple layers of foam having differentcompression parameters and with openings (holes) extending through onlythe top layer. The core 12 ₃₁ has bottom layers 16 ₃₁-1 and 16 ₃₁-2which are arranged on the sides core 12 ₃₁ to provide an opening 16₃₁-3. The opening 16 ₃₁-3 allows the top layer to depress under theweight of a head and neck and thereby facilitates the head in assuming anon-distorting position in the manner described in connection with FIG.40. The bottom layers 16 ₃₁-1 and 16 ₃₁-2 in one embodiment are foamswith differing ILDs and in still other embodiments are a single layermade of a single foam.

FIG. 32 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₃₂ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion formed of multiple rows of circular holes surrounded by tensionrelieving slots on four sides for a head between firmer regions alongthe edges of the length for neck support and created by firmer regionson either side of the soft center region. Additional rows of circularholes for softness between the firmer regions and the edges along thewidth and created by four ear holes for side lying placement of ears.

FIG. 33 depicts a top view of a core 12 ₃₃ having variable displacementparameters in the length and width directions created by a soft centerregion for a head formed of multiple rows of circular holes surroundedby tension relieving slots on four sides and additionally at each of thecorners between firmer regions along the edges of the length for necksupport and created by firmer regions on either side of the soft centerregion. Additional rows of circular holes for softness between thefirmer regions and the edges along the width and created by four earholes for side lying placement of ears where the ear holes are within alarger oval cut. In FIG. 33, the soft center region hexagons, or theentire center region, in some alternate embodiments a filled with a softgel.

FIG. 34 depicts a female body 36 in a back-lying position with thepillow 10 cooperating with the mattress 57 to maintain natural head andneck alignment in a non-distorting aligned position.

FIG. 35 depicts a female body 36 in a side-lying position with thepillow 10 cooperating with the mattress 57 to maintain natural head andneck alignment in a non-distorting aligned position.

FIG. 36 depicts a male body 35 in a back-lying position with the pillow10 cooperating with the mattress to maintain natural head and neckalignment in a non-distorting aligned position.

FIG. 37 depicts a male body 35 in a side-lying position with the pillow10 cooperating with the mattress 57 to maintain natural head and neckalignment in a non-distorting aligned position.

While the pillow 10 in any of the FIG. 34 through FIG. 37 examples maybe used on any surface or with any mattress, ideally mattress 57 hasmattress variable displacement parameters for fostering body alignment.Mattresses with mattress variable displacement parameters are described,for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,036,172 and 6,807,698. In FIG. 34through FIG. 37, the mattress length is across the page, the mattressthickness is vertical with the page and the mattress width is normal tothe page. The mattress 57 includes mattress variable displacementparameters along the mattress length and the mattress width in thedirection of the mattress thickness for supporting the body in anon-distorting aligned position. The pillow 10 has a foam core asdescribed in connection with FIG. 1 through FIG. 33 having core variabledisplacement parameters along the pillow length and the pillow width inthe direction of the pillow thickness for supporting the head inanon-distorting aligned position when located on the mattress 57 withthe length of the pillow 10 perpendicular to the length of the mattress57, and with the core variable displacement parameters tailored to matchthe mattress variable displacement parameters for alignment of the headand the body. For example, when the shoulder region of the mattress 57includes a displacement parameter for lowering the shoulder of aback-lying reclining body for alignment of the spinal area of the body,the angles of the neck and head on the body tend to be modified anddistorted from proper alignment for ideal non-snoring and free airpassage. With such mattresses, the pillow 10 is tailored to have acomplimentary ILD (different from an ILD that would be used for amattress without mattress variable displacement parameters) whereby therotation of the head into the core is accentuated to provide a moreideal sleeping combination. The combination of a pillow and a mattresseach having tailored variable displacement parameters tends to providean ideal sleeping environment.

FIG. 38 depicts a male body 35 in a back-lying position with the pillow10 operating to bend the head and neck upward and out of naturalalignment in a distorting position.

FIG. 39 depicts a male body 35 in a side-lying position with the pillow10 maintaining natural head and neck alignment in a non-distortingaligned position.

FIG. 40 depicts a male body 35 in a side-lying position with the pillow10 maintaining natural head and neck alignment in a non-distortingaligned position and with a slight downward extension that tends to openthe air passage and reduce or eliminate snoring and other sleepdifficulties.

FIG. 41 depicts a cross-sectional end view of a pillow 10 with a cover11 and core 12 and with a female body 36 in a side-lying position withthe pillow 10 maintaining natural head and neck alignment in anon-distorting aligned position and where the section is taken to showthe ear aligned over the ear hole of the core 12.

FIG. 42 depicts a cross-sectional end view of the same pillow 10 as inFIG. 41 with a cover 11 and core 12 and with a female body 36 in aside-lying position with the pillow 10 maintaining natural head and neckalignment in a non-distorting aligned position and where the section istaken to show the head behind the ear hole of the core 12.

FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional side view of a pillow 10 with a cover11 and core 12 and with a female in a side-lying position with thepillow 10 maintaining natural head and neck alignment in anon-distorting aligned position and where the section is taken to showthe ear positioned over the ear hole of the core 12. Typically, thestructure of the pillow 10 of FIG. 43 encourages the head to be rotatedat an angle of approximately 8° from the horizontal.

FIG. 44 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow 10 as inFIG. 43 with a cover 11 and core 12 and with a female body 36 in aside-lying position, in the opposite direction as in FIG. 43, with thepillow 10 maintaining natural head and neck alignment in a nondistortingaligned position and where the section is taken to show the ear alignedover the ear hole of the core 12. Typically, the structure of the pillow10 of FIG. 44 encourages the head to be rotated at an angle ofapproximately 8° from the horizontal.

FIG. 45 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow 10 as inFIG. 44 with a cover 11 and core 12 and with a female midway between aside-lying position and a back-lying position, with the pillow 10maintaining natural head and neck alignment in a non-distorting alignedposition.

FIG. 46 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow 10 as inFIG. 44 and FIG. 45 with a cover 11 and core 12 and with a female body36 in a back-lying position, with the pillow 10 maintaining natural headand neck alignment in a non-distorting aligned position.

FIG. 47 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the same pillow 10 as inFIG. 44, FIG. 45 and FIG. 46 with a cover 11 and core 12 and with afemale body 36 in a side-lying position with the face toward the centerof the pillow 10 and with the pillow 10 maintaining natural head andneck alignment in a non-distorting aligned position. Typically, thestructure of the pillow 10 of FIG. 47 encourages the head to be rotatedat an angle of approximately 8° from the horizontal.

FIG. 48 depicts a top view of a pillow 10 with a core 12 having variabledisplacement parameters in the length and width directions created by asoft center hole for a head between firmer regions along the edges ofthe length for neck support and created by firmer regions on either sideof the soft center hole with additional holes (including ear holes) forsoftness between the firmer regions and the edges along the width.

FIG. 48 depicts a top sectional view of a pillow 10 ₄₈ having a core 12₄₈ having variable displacement parameters in the length and widthdirections created by a center hole 16 ₄₈-3 for a head. The center hole16 ₄₈-3 is between firmer regions of 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches along theedges of the length for neck support. The center hole 16 ₄₈-3 also hasfirmer regions on either side with additional holes (including ear holes16 ₄₈-3, 16 ₄₈-4, 16 ₄₈-6 and 16 ₄₈-7 and including side holes 16 ₄₈-1and 16 ₄₈-5). The ear holes 16 ₄₈-3, 16 ₄₈-4, 16 ₄₈-6 and 16 ₄₈-7provide for softness for receiving an ear with a side-lying head. Theside holes 16 ₄₈-1 and 16 ₄₈-5 provide softness near the edges of thepillow. In the embodiment of FIG. 48, the pillow 10 ₄₈ measures 28inches by 18 inches and the core 12 ₄₈ measures 24 inches by 14 inches.

FIG. 49 depicts an end view of a thin core 12 ₄₈-1 that is oneembodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow of FIG. 48. In a mannersimilar to that shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the transition between core12 ₄₈ and the center region 16 ₄₈-3 is gradual with a triangular slope.This transition prevents a sharp feeling to a sleeper for greatercomfort.

FIG. 50 depicts a front view of the thin core 12 ₄₈-1 that is oneembodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow of FIG. 48. The thin core 12₄₈-1 is 1 inch thick.

FIG. 51 depicts a front view of an alternate thicker core 12 ₄₈-2 thatis another embodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow of FIG. 48. Thethicker core 12 ₄₈-2 is 2 inches thick.

FIG. 52 depicts a front view of a thick core 12 ₅₂ that is oneembodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow of FIG. 48 formed by acombination of the cores 12 ₄₈-1 and 12 ₄₈-2 of FIG. 50 and FIG. 51. Thethick core 12 ₅₂ as a combination of the cores 12 ₄₈-1 and 12 ₄₈-2 is 3inches thick.

FIG. 53 depicts an isometric view of a pillow 10 ₅₃ having a thick core12 ₅₂ of the FIG. 52 type that is an embodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in thepillow of FIG. 48. The zipper 14 provides an opening that allows thecore 12 ₅₂ to be easily inserted into and removed from the cover 11 ₅₃.

FIG. 54 depicts a front sectional view of a thick core 12 ₅₂ of the FIG.52 type that is an embodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow of FIG.48. In FIG. 54, the cover 1153 includes an upper chamber 11-1 that isfilled with 3.5 ounces of down having a 550 fill power and includes alower chamber 11-2 that is also filled with 3.5 ounces of down having a550 fill power. The zipper 14 provides an opening that allows the core12 ₅₂ to be easily inserted into and removed from the cover 11 ₅₃.

FIG. 55 depicts a front sectional view of a thick core 12 ₄₈-2 of theFIG. 51 type that is an embodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow ofFIG. 48. In FIG. 55, the cover 11 ₅₃ includes an upper chamber 11-1 thatis filled with 3.5 ounces of down having a 550 fill power and includes alower chamber 11-2 that is also filled with 3.5 ounces of down having a550 fill power. The zipper 14 provides an opening that allows the core12 ₅₂ to be easily inserted into and removed from the cover 11 ₅₃.

FIG. 56 depicts a front sectional view of a thin core 12 ₄₈-1 of theFIG. 50 type that is an embodiment of the core 12 ₄₈ in the pillow ofFIG. 48. In FIG. 56, the cover 11 ₅₃ includes an upper chamber 11-1 thatis filled with 3.5 ounces of down having a 550 fill power and includes alower chamber 11-2 that is also filled with 3.5 ounces of down having a550 fill power. The zipper 14 provides an opening that allows the core12 ₄₈-1 to be easily inserted into and removed from the cover 11 ₅₃.

The embodiments of FIG. 54, FIG. 55 and FIG. 56 each typically have thesame amount of down or other fill and hence the pillows 10 ₅₃, 10 ₅₅ and10 ₅₆ have the feel of firm, intermediate and soft, respectively.

FIG. 57 depicts a front sectional view of another core 12 ₅₇ of the typeused in a pillow of the FIG. 50 type. The core 12 ₅₇ includes a body 12₅₇-1 having ear wells 16 ₅₇-1 and 16 ₅₇-2 toward the sides and ashallower central region. The central region includes a cavity 16 ₅₇-3in the center. The shallower central region and cavity 16 ₅₇-3 functionto recline the head of a body in the same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3in the core of FIG. 48 and as shown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. Thebody 12 ₅₇-1 is foam or other soft material comfortable for supporting ahead and neck of a body.

FIG. 58 depicts a front sectional view of another core 12 ₅₈ of the typeused in a pillow of the FIG. 50 type. The core 12 ₅₈ includes a bodyhaving a body top 12 ₅₈-1 and a body bottom 12 ₅₈-2. The body top 12₅₈-1 and body bottom 12 ₅₈-2 have ear wells 16 ₅₈-1 and 16 ₅₈-2 towardthe sides and a shallower central region. The central region functionsto recline the head of a body in the same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3in the core of FIG. 48 and as shown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. Thebody top 12 ₅₈-1 and the body bottom 12 ₅₈-2 are foam or other softmaterial comfortable for supporting a head and neck of a body. In oneexample, the body top 12 ₅₈-1 is a latex foam and the body bottom 12₅₈-2 is a memory foam.

FIG. 59 depicts a front sectional view of another core 12 ₅₉ of the typeused in a pillow of the FIG. 50 type. The core 12 ₅₉ includes a body 12₅₉-1 having ear wells 16 ₅₉-1 and 16 ₅₉-2 toward the sides and ashallower central region. The central region includes a cavity 16 ₅₉-3in the center. The shallower central region and cavity 16 ₅₉-3 functionto recline the head of a body in the same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3in the core of FIG. 48 and as shown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. Thebody 12 ₅₉-1 is foam or other soft material comfortable for supporting ahead and neck of a body. The outer edges of the body 12 ₅₉-1 are roundedto help rotate a side lying head in an 8° degree angle relative tohorizontal as shown for example in FIG. 43.

FIG. 60 depicts a front sectional view of another core 12 ₆₀ of the typeused in a pillow of the FIG. 50 type. The core 12 ₆₀ includes a bodyhaving a body top 12 ₆₀-1 and a body bottom 12 ₆₀-2. The body top 12₆₀-1 and body bottom 12 ₆₀-2 have ear wells 16 ₆₀-1 and 16 ₆₀-2 towardthe sides and a shallower central region. The central region functionsto recline the head of a body in the same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3in the core of FIG. 48 and as shown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. Thebody top 12 ₆₀-1 and the body bottom 12 ₆₀-2 are foam or other softmaterial comfortable for supporting a head and neck of a body. In oneexample, the body top 12 ₆₀-1 is a latex foam and the body bottom 12₆₀-2 is a memory foam.

FIG. 61 depicts a front sectional view of another core 12 ₆₁ of the typeused in a pillow of the FIG. 50 type. The core 12 ₆₁ includes a bodyhaving a body top 12 ₆₁-1 and a body bottom 12 ₆₁-2. The body top 12₆₁-1 and body bottom 12 ₆₁-2 have ear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16 ₆₁-2 towardthe sides and a shallower central region. The central region functionsto recline the head of a body in the same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3in the core of FIG. 48 and as shown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. Thebody top 12 ₆₁-1 and the body bottom 12 ₆₁-2 are foam or other softmaterial comfortable for supporting a head and neck of a body. In oneexample, the body top 12 ₆₁-1 is a latex foam and the body bottom 12₆₁-2 is a memory foam. The core 12 ₆₁ includes a cover layer 12 ₆₁-4that extends over the body top 12 ₆₁-1 and the ear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16₆₁-2. The cover layer 12 ₆₁-4 tends to soften the ear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and16 ₆₁-2.

FIG. 62 depicts a front sectional view of the core 12 ₆₁ of FIG. 61within a cover 11 of a pillow 12 and supporting a side lying head 36.The core 12 ₆₁ includes a body having a body top 12 ₆₁-1 and a bodybottom 12 ₆₁-2. The body top 12 ₆₁-1 and body bottom 12 ₆₁-2 have earwells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16 ₆₁-2 toward the sides and a shallower centralregion. The central region functions to recline the head of a body inthe same manner as the region 16 ₄₈-3 in the core of FIG. 48 and asshown by the reclined head in FIG. 40. The body top 12 ₆₁-1 and the bodybottom 12 ₆₁-2 are foam or other soft material comfortable forsupporting a head and neck of a body. In one example, the body top 12₆₁-1 is a latex foam and the body bottom 12 ₆₁-2 is a memory foam. Thecore 12 ₆₁ includes a cover layer 12 ₆₁-4 that extends over the body top12 ₆₁-1 and the ear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16 ₆₁-2. The cover layer 12 ₆₁-4tends to soften the ear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16 ₆₁-2 and together with thecover 11 allow the ear of a side lying head 36 to gracefully find theear wells 16 ₆₁-1 and 16 ₆₁-2. The rounded end of the body top 12 ₆₁-1tends to encourage the head 36 to rotate at an angle of about 8° in anon-distorting aligned position.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to preferred embodiments thereof it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the scope of the invention.

1. A pillow for supporting a head and neck of a reclining body on amattress where the pillow has a pillow length, a pillow width and apillow thickness comprising, a core having core variable displacementparameters along the pillow length and the pillow width in the directionof the pillow thickness for supporting the head in a non-distortingaligned position, a cover having a cover chamber containing a fill wherethe cover chamber has a chamber thickness forming a portion of thepillow thickness, where the fill has fill displacement parameters andwhere the core is located within a core opening formed by the cover sothat the cover encases the core, and whereby the cover imparts a softfeeling to the head supported by the pillow and whereby the core and thecover are displaced by the head as a function of the displacementparameters to support the head in the non-distorting aligned position.2. The pillow of claim 1 wherein the fill displacement parameters aresubstantially softer than the core displacement parameters.
 3. Thepillow of claim 1 wherein the fill is one or more of synthetic andnatural fibers.
 4. The pillow of claim 1 wherein the core is foam havinga plurality of holes located to provide t the core variable displacementparameters.
 5. The pillow of claim 4 wherein the core has a centralregion including a single hole.
 6. The pillow of claim 4 wherein thecore has a central region including one or more of said holes foraligning with the head and has two side regions offset from said centralregion for aligning with an ear of said head when the head is in aside-lying position.
 7. The pillow of claim 6 wherein said side regionseach include two holes.
 8. The pillow of claim 4 wherein the centralregion of said core is formed by a foam layer having a volume wherefifty percent or more of the volume is constituted by holes.
 9. Thepillow of claim 1 wherein the core includes one or more layers of foamincluding said core variable displacement parameters.
 10. The pillow ofclaim 9 wherein said one or more layers are of uniform thickness. 11.The pillow of claim 1 wherein the core includes a plurality of layers offoam wherein at least one of said layers includes said core variabledisplacement parameters and wherein said cover includes an openingwhereby one or more of said layers can be removed to modify the pillowdisplacement parameters.
 12. The pillow of claim 10 wherein said openingis provided by a zipper in said cover.
 13. The pillow of claim 1 wherethe core has a central region formed with a first wall and a second wallwhere the first and second walls extend in the direction of the lengthwhere the central region has a central ILD and the walls have a wall ILDwhereby the neck of the reclining body is supported by and extends overone of said walls allowing the head to depress into the central region.14. The pillow of claim 13 where the first wall has a greater width thanthe second wall whereby the head when extending over the first wall hasgreater support than when extending over the second wall.
 15. The pillowof claim 1 where the chamber includes two or more compartments.
 16. Thepillow of claim 15 where a first compartment is on a top of the pillowand a second compartment is on a bottom of the pillow.
 17. The pillow ofclaim 16 where the first compartment has a first volume for receiving afirst quantity of fill and where the second compartment has a secondvolume for receiving a second quantity of fill where the first volumeand the first quantity of fill are greater than the second volume andthe second quantity of fill, respectively.
 18. A pillow for supporting ahead and neck of a reclining body on a mattress where the pillow has apillow length, a pillow width and a pillow thickness comprising, a corehaving a substantially uniform thickness and including a plurality ofholes providing core variable displacement parameters along the pillowlength and the pillow width in the direction of the pillow thickness forsupporting the head in a nondistorting aligned position, the coreincluding a central region and a first region on one side of the centralregion and a second region on another side of the central region, acover having a chamber for receiving a fill where the chamber has achamber thickness forming a substantial portion of the pillow thickness,where the fill has fill displacement parameters substantially softerthan the core variable displacement parameters and where the core islocated within a core opening so that the cover encases the core, andwhereby the cover imparts a soft feeling to the head supported by thepillow and whereby the core and the cover are displaced by the head as afunction of the displacement parameters to support the head in thenon-distorting aligned position.
 19. The pillow of claim 18 where thefill is one or more of synthetic and natural fibers.
 20. The pillow ofclaim 18 where the central region is formed with a first wall and asecond wall where the first and second walls extend in the direction ofthe length where the central region has a central ILD and the walls havea wall ILD whereby the neck of the reclining body is supported by andextends over one of said walls allowing the head to depress into thecentral region and where the first wall has a greater width than thesecond wall whereby the head when extending over the first wall hasgreater support than when extending over the second wall.
 21. A pillowfor supporting a head and neck of a reclining body on a mattress wherethe pillow has a pillow length, a pillow width and a pillow thicknessand where the mattress has a mattress length, a mattress width and amattress thickness where the mattress includes mattress variabledisplacement parameters along the mattress length and the mattress widthin the direction of the mattress thickness for supporting the body in anon-distorting aligned position comprising, a core having core variabledisplacement parameters along the pillow length and the pillow width inthe direction of the pillow thickness for supporting the head in anon-distorting aligned position when located on the mattress with thelength of the pillow perpendicular to the length of the mattress, saidcore variable displacement parameters tailored to match the mattressvariable displacement parameters for alignment of the head and otherparts of the body, a cover having a cover chamber containing a fillwhere the cover chamber has a chamber thickness forming a substantialportion of the pillow thickness, where the fill has fill displacementparameters and where the core is located within a core opening formed bythe cover so that the cover encases the core, and whereby the coverimparts a soft feeling to the head supported by the pillow and wherebythe core and the cover are displaced by the head as a function of thedisplacement parameters to support the head in the aligned position.